Fin's Fish Guide
The Vanikoro sweeper (Pempheris vanicolensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Pempheridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cyprus, Greece, Hong Kong and others
Description
The Vanikoro sweeper is a sweeper (Pempheridae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a deep, rearward-tapering, copper-red body with large eyes. The dorsal fin and tail have dark margins on a copper-coloured body. As a nocturnal fish it shelters by day in dense schools in caves and under overhanging coral; at night it swarms out to eat zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Vanikoro sweeper?
The Vanikoro sweeper has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Vanikoro sweeper live?
The Vanikoro sweeper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Cyprus, Greece, Hong Kong and others
How big does the Vanikoro sweeper get?
The Vanikoro sweeper grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Vanikoro sweeper dangerous to humans?
No, the Vanikoro sweeper is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Vanikoro sweeper and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pempheris
More from the family Pempheridae
Want the complete picture on the Vanikoro sweeper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Vanikoro sweeper is one of 12,519 species in the app.